With the increasing number of summer triathlons where wetsuits are banned, should you invest in a swimskin?
This textile suit, worn over your triathlon outfit and removed after the swim, reduces hydrodynamic drag and provides compression to minimize muscle vibrations. We tested three models available on the Swiss market: the Apex Swimskin by Orca, the Synskin3 by Synergy, and the Streamline Sleeveless Swimskin by Zone3.
Our tests, conducted on two different swimmer profiles, provide insights into their effectiveness. For a group of average swimmers (pacing between 1’40 and 2’00 per 100 m), the time savings ranged from 15 to 20 seconds with the Synergy and Zone3 swimskins, and 25 seconds with the Orca Apex swimskin. For strong swimmers (pace around 1’20 per 100 m), the time savings ranged from 20 to 25 seconds with the Synergy and Zone3 swimskins, and were slightly higher (30 seconds) with the Orca Apex.
What Matters Most: The Fit
The determining factor remains size and fit. A swimskin that’s even slightly too large can create wrinkles and increase drag in the water, negating any potential benefit. Conversely, a perfectly fitted swimskin—even from a less prestigious brand—will often perform better than a poorly chosen high-end model.
Ultimately, swimmers who tested our swimskins reported increased comfort in the water, a smoother glide, and greater enjoyment while swimming.
The following table summarizes the results of our tests.
